Getting Ubuntu

There are a number of methods you may use to obtain a
copy of Ubuntu, all of which are described on the Ubuntu
Web site download
page.

The first method is to download an ISO image from a
mirror server near you and make a CD to install Ubuntu. Two types of CDs are available:

Desktop CD - the desktop CD allows you to try Ubuntu without changing your computer at all, and at your option to install it permanently later. This type of CD is what most people will want to use.

Text-mode install CD - the text-mode install CD allows you to perform certain specialist installations of Ubuntu. This type of CD is intended for cases such as creating pre-configured OEM systems or setting up automated deployments; it can also be used as a package source for upgrading older installations.

If you don't have a CD burner or you have limited or expensive bandwidth,
we can send you pressed copies of the 'Desktop
CD' free of charge. You may request CDs via
Shipit, the Ubuntu CD Distribution System.

Ordered CDs may take several weeks to arrive.

You can also contact an Ubuntu Local Community Team (LoCoTeam) near you. These are self-organized groups of Ubuntu enthusiasts who want to bring the Ubuntu community onto a local level. Most LoCoTeams have extra copies of Ubuntu and give them out freely. A list of existing Ubuntu LoCoTeams can be found on the Ubuntu wiki.

Another method of obtaining Ubuntu is to join a local
Linux Users Group (LUG) and ask if somebody can
make you a copy. Normally, you will have to pay for the cost of the CD
and delivery.